10 Best Nail Salons Near Columbia, SC
Finding the right nail salon is about more than beauty—it’s about trust, consistency, and the confidence that your nails are cared for in a clean and welcoming environment. In Columbia, South Carolina, the nail care industry is thriving. From boutique salons offering personalized nail art to luxury spas combining manicures with wellness treatments, the options are diverse and suited to every lifestyle.
This guide introduces the 10 best nail salons near Columbia, SC, selected based on Google ratings (calculated as of 2025), customer feedback, and service offerings. Whether you’re a beauty enthusiast, a busy professional, a student, a bride, a man exploring grooming services, or someone health-conscious, these salons deliver trusted and high-quality nail care.
Why Choosing the Right Nail Salon Matters
Nail salons today go beyond simple polish application. A high-quality salon in Columbia should balance artistry, hygiene, atmosphere, and service reliability. The choice often depends on your needs:
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Beauty lovers prioritize nail art, polish variety, and spa-like enhancements.
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Working professionals value efficient services and relaxing environments.
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Students and teenagers look for affordability and friendly spaces.
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Wedding or event clients need flawless designs and long-lasting finishes.
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Health-conscious customers emphasize clean, non-toxic practices.
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Gift seekers want salons that provide a memorable experience to share with others.
With a variety of Columbia SC nail spas available, understanding the unique strengths of each salon helps you choose wisely.
Google Ratings (Calculated as of 2025)
| Salon Name | Rating (Stars) | Notable Highlight |
|---|---|---|
| Jolie Nails and Spa | 4.8 | Relaxing spa environment, skilled staff |
| Alpha Nails & Spa Clemson | 4.6 | Friendly, flexible, kid-friendly |
| Em Nails & Spa | 4.9 | Detailed work, high customer loyalty |
| May Nail Salon & Spa | 4.9 | Clean, family-friendly |
| Alpha Nail Spa | 4.7 | Inclusive, LGBTQ+ friendly |
| Lust Nails and Spa | 5.0 | Boutique salon, personalized care |
| Everlast Nail Spa | 4.8 | Indoor/outdoor services, safe space |
| LaVie Nails and Spa | 4.2 | Popular, convenient walk-ins |
| Sassy Nail Bar | 4.9 | Wide range, extended hours |
| Nu Nail Bar & Lashes | 4.8 | Luxury and wellness focused |
1. Jolie Nails and Spa
Google Rating: 4.8 stars (calculated as of 2025)
Jolie Nails and Spa, located on Whaley Street near the University of South Carolina, is frequently praised for its professional technicians and spa-like environment.
Services:
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Manicure and pedicure treatments
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Gel, acrylic, and dip powder nails
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Seasonal nail art and customized designs
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Spa extras including paraffin wax and massages
Atmosphere:
Designed for relaxation, Jolie features comfortable seating, calming music, and modern interiors.
Pros: Skilled staff, relaxing environment
Cons: Peak hours can require waiting
Alpha Nails & Spa Clemson
Google Rating: 4.6 stars (calculated as of 2025)
Alpha Nails & Spa Clemson serves the northeast Columbia area, providing affordable and family-friendly nail services.
Services:
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Traditional and gel manicures
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Pedicures with massage and exfoliation
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Nail enhancements like acrylics and SNS
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Child-friendly polish options
Atmosphere:
Welcoming and casual, it appeals to both students and families.
Pros: Flexible with walk-ins, friendly technicians
Cons: Not as upscale as luxury spas
Em Nails & Spa
Google Rating: 4.9 stars (calculated as of 2025)
Em Nails & Spa, located downtown near the State House, is known for meticulous attention to detail.
Services:
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Custom nail art and intricate designs
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Gel, acrylic, and dip powder manicures
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Spa pedicures with hot stone therapy
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Waxing services
Atmosphere:
Bright, modern, and consistent, Em Nails & Spa is popular with loyal repeat customers.
Pros: Detailed work, consistent quality
Cons: High demand, best to book early
May Nail Salon & Spa
Google Rating: 4.9 stars (calculated as of 2025)
May Nail Salon & Spa is popular on Devine Street, emphasizing cleanliness and health-conscious nail care.
Services:
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Gentle manicures and pedicures
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Strengthening and nail repair
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Kid-friendly polish options
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Simple nail art
Atmosphere:
Minimalist and bright, creating a clean environment ideal for families and wellness-minded clients.
Pros: Very clean, family-friendly
Cons: Limited capacity, appointment recommended
Alpha Nail Spa
Google Rating: 4.7 stars (calculated as of 2025)
Located near Harden Street, Alpha Nail Spa stands out for inclusivity and modern styling.
Services:
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Gel, dip, and acrylics
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Special event nail designs
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Spa pedicures with massage chairs
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Brow and waxing services
Atmosphere:
Trendy and inclusive, with a welcoming space for LGBTQ+ clients and men’s nail services.
Pros: Inclusive, stylish design
Cons: Limited parking during busy hours
Lust Nails and Spa
Google Rating: 5.0 stars (calculated as of 2025)
Lust Nails and Spa, a boutique salon on Hard Scrabble Road, provides personalized nail care in a cozy environment.
Services:
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Classic and deluxe pedicures
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Gel manicures and strengthening
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Seasonal designs
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Child-friendly options
Atmosphere:
Small and intimate, ideal for those wanting personalized care.
Pros: Perfect score, boutique experience
Cons: Fewer service options compared to larger spas
Everlast Nail Spa
Google Rating: 4.8 stars (calculated as of 2025)
Everlast Nail Spa on Harbison Boulevard combines modern design with inclusivity.
Services:
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Manicure and pedicure packages
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Nail extensions and art
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Indoor and outdoor spa services
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Flexible payment methods
Atmosphere:
Stylish and professional, appreciated by diverse clients.
Pros: Inclusive, flexible, high-quality services
Cons: Busy during peak traffic hours
LaVie Nails and Spa
Google Rating: 4.2 stars (calculated as of 2025)
Located on Harbison Boulevard North, LaVie Nails is a convenient salon for walk-ins.
Services:
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Basic manicures and pedicures
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Gel and dip services
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Nail art and group sessions
Atmosphere:
Approachable and casual, with Wi-Fi and a practical layout.
Pros: Walk-in friendly, convenient location
Cons: Mixed reviews on consistency
Sassy Nail Bar
Google Rating: 4.9 stars (calculated as of 2025)
Sassy Nail Bar in northeast Columbia provides extended hours and a wide range of services.
Services:
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Manicures, pedicures, and enhancements
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Nail art for events
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Family/group bookings
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Spa relaxation treatments
Atmosphere:
Cheerful and welcoming, designed for families and working clients with busy schedules.
Pros: Wide menu, extended hours
Cons: Can be crowded during peak evenings
Nu Nail Bar & Lashes
Google Rating: 4.8 stars (calculated as of 2025)
Nu Nail Bar & Lashes offers a luxury experience with nail care and beauty services combined.
Services:
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Manicures and pedicures
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Eyelash extensions and waxing
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Nail health treatments
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Event and wedding nail packages
Atmosphere:
Spa-like, elegant, and wellness-focused.
Pros: Luxury feel, full-service salon
Cons: Slightly higher prices
Comparison Table
| Salon Name | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Jolie Nails and Spa | Skilled staff, relaxing spa environment | Busy during peak hours |
| Alpha Nails Clemson | Family/kid-friendly, walk-ins welcome | Less upscale than luxury |
| Em Nails & Spa | Detailed, consistent, loyal clientele | Often fully booked |
| May Nail Salon & Spa | Clean, safe, family-oriented | Small capacity |
| Alpha Nail Spa | Inclusive, trendy atmosphere | Parking can be limited |
| Lust Nails and Spa | Perfect rating, boutique service | Limited service menu |
| Everlast Nail Spa | Inclusive, flexible payments | Location busy at rush hour |
| LaVie Nails and Spa | Walk-in convenience, casual | Mixed reviews |
| Sassy Nail Bar | Wide service range, extended hours | Crowds at peak times |
| Nu Nail Bar & Lashes | Luxury, event-focused services | Higher pricing |
FAQs
1. What are the highest-rated nail salons in Columbia, SC?
Em Nails & Spa, Jolie Nails and Spa, and Sassy Nail Bar consistently receive high ratings.
2. Which salons are best for weddings or special events?
Nu Nail Bar & Lashes, Jolie Nails and Spa, and Em Nails & Spa are top choices for event-ready looks.
3. Do these nail salons accept walk-ins?
Yes, many do. Jolie Nails and Spa, LaVie Nails and Spa, and Alpha Nails Clemson all welcome walk-ins.
4. Which salons are best for kids or families?
Sassy Nail Bar, May Nail Salon & Spa, and Lust Nails and Spa provide family-friendly services.
5. Are there inclusive and LGBTQ+ friendly salons in Columbia?
Yes. Alpha Nail Spa and Everlast Nail Spa are particularly noted for inclusivity.
6. Do Columbia nail salons provide services beyond nails?
Some do. Nu Nail Bar & Lashes offers waxing and lash services, while Em Nails & Spa includes waxing add-ons.
7. Which salons are the most affordable?
Alpha Nails & Spa Clemson and LaVie Nails and Spa are good budget-conscious choices.
8. Are gift cards or packages available?
Yes. Many salons, including Em Nails & Spa and Nu Nail Bar & Lashes, provide gift options suitable for holidays or special occasions.
Columbia, SC is home to a wide spectrum of nail salons, from intimate boutique spots like Lust Nails and Spa to premium full-service destinations such as Nu Nail Bar & Lashes. Whether you prioritize affordability, inclusivity, family-friendliness, or luxury, this guide to the 10 best nail salons near Columbia, SC ensures that you can make an informed choice.
By considering Google ratings (calculated as of 2025), service menus, atmospheres, and customer experiences, you can find a salon that aligns with your lifestyle—be it everyday nail care, wedding preparation, or a relaxing spa day.
